Inside the Maldives’ luxurious Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu resort as we put the dream holiday hotspot to the test

The Maldives has a reputation for their pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue waters and luxury resorts – but when I first set off, I was a little apprehensive.

After all, could the islands really live up to the dreamy photos I’d seen on social media feeds?

Within minutes after arriving at the Coco Collection’s Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu resort, I had my answer; yes, yes they could.

You instantly feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard thanks to the picture-perfect landscapes, luxurious rooms and suites, not to mention the lusciously green surroundings.

I expected the island to be filled predominantly with honeymooners and, while it is a very romantic destination, I was surprised to see plenty of families and groups of friends also enjoying a break at the resort.

The Rooms
It’s almost impossible not to immediately make yourself at home in one of the resort’s Sunset Beach Villas.

The suite boasts a huge king-size bed in the centre of the room, cosy armchairs, and an in-room sink, as well as an outdoor bathroom complete with a lush shower. (Don’t worry, it’s all hidden away behind a high wall and plenty of vegetation).

Inside the Sunset Beach Villa (Image: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu)

But the best part of the villas is that you get your own little slice of the white sandy beach, with direct access to the waters – you can even hire your own snorkeling kit during your stay to go and explore the reefs filled with tropical fish a short swim away._source=ig_embed

(Although it’s worth noting that the beach is accessible to all guests so you can spot occasional holidaymakers strolling along while you sunbathe).

The villas are a bit of a walk from the main restaurants and wider beach, but that adds to their charm as you can enjoy plenty of privacy, not to mention it’s so peaceful. Total bliss.

Your room is right on the beach(Image: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu)

The food

There isn’t really traditional Maldivian cuisine (although the coconuts and seafood are pretty epic) so locals have taken inspiration from around the world – meaning a plethora of choice for holidaymakers.

Coco Dhuni has three restaurants serving up some seriously tempting offerings whether you’re after a romantic date night or want a light lunch before an afternoon on snorkelling.

Buffet beach barbecue anyone?(Image: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu)

The main restaurant is Cowrie, where you’ll find a buffet packed with dishes from around the world whether you’re after local seafood, classic British grub, Thai and Chinese, American… the list goes on.

For those wanting a more intimate setting, the beach restaurant Cornus is ideal thanks to its candlelight setting. Plus, the Thai-inspired food is delicious too; the curries were incredible.

If you’re after lunch with a view, then the resort’s Conch bar is a must; it sits right on the heart of the white sands with incredible ocean views.

It’s also here where you’ll find a wealth of entertainment in the evening from shows to film screenings – and a bar for a post-dinner cocktail!

The activities

SNORKELING

The Maldives are renowned for their incredible reefs, but I wondered if they could live up to all of the hype. During our stay we went on a snorkeling excursion, and I was not prepared for how utterly breathtaking it all was – we even spotted a turtle and a manta ray!

There is of course plenty of diving on offer too, but as someone who’s never tried it I didn’t go along – however those who did came back with tales of turtles and reef sharks so it sounds pretty epic too.

You get your own private slice of heaven(Image: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu)

EXCURSIONS

For those who want to go exploring, there are plenty of excursions offering everything from adventure to relaxing sunset trips.

We embarked on a fascinating trip to the nearby island Thulhadloo where you can wander through the streets with a guide and learn all about local life.

Another highlight was the Dolphin and Sunset excursion where you sip on bubbly while taking in the views – and yes, we did actually get to see some dolphins!

However, for something truly special, guests can book a stay on the nearby desert island, owned by the resort.

It truly is a Castaway-worthy stay; there is nobody else on the entire island, and your only contact with the outside world is the set of walkie-talkies provided by the resort. A must for anyone with a sense of adventure (not to mention it’s the ultimate haven for peace and tranquility!).

WELLNESS

Considering the Maldives is all about rest and relaxation, it’s no surprise that the resort boasts a luxurious spa.

Nestled amongst all of the lush greenery, there are private outdoor treatment rooms where you can really unwind and make the most of the peaceful surroundings – I opted for a Balinese Massage and was utter bliss.

Just look at those beaches(Image: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu)

ECO-FRIENDLY

Throughout the island there’s a real sense of preservation, and the resort works hard to try and minimise the impact tourism has on nature.

There’s a weekly eco-hour where electricity is shut down all across the island, and guests are invited to join the staff in cleaning up the beaches – although they’re already so pristine there’s not very much to do!

The resort is also home to a turtle rescue centre run with the Olive Ridley Project – all the turtles there have been injured in some way by fishing nets, and the centre helps to rehabilitate them before releasing them back into the wild.

The work they do is fascinating – and you get to see the turtles up close in their tanks too!

FOODIES

As well as the restaurants, there are loads of culinary experiences on offer, but one that particularly floored our party was the buffet ‘Barbecue on the beach’.

You’re served up a plethora of fresh seafood, grilled meats and veg – but be warned, it’s basically all you can eat and it’s too easy to keep going back for more meaning some of us were far too stuffed afterwards!

As for couples, you can book a romantic dinner for two on your own stretch of beach, where an epic six-course meal awaits.

NIGHTLIFE

Because the island is quite small and the whole idea is to rest and relax, there’s not much in terms of a nightlife -party animals won’t get their fix here.

However that doesn’t mean everyone’s in bed by 8pm. Instead the resort offers a series of evening entertainment from their weekly ‘White Party’ with its themed dress code, to live performances.

Or you could always spend the evening watching some of your favourite film classics at the outdoor Coco Cinema amidst the lush vegetation!